Published: 24 March 2025
Easter weekend is a great family day out at Holker Hall & Gardens, with paint your own egg, egg rolling, Easter egg hunts and a host of other activities designed to get the whole family involved, as well as well earned brunches, lunches, cakes and refreshments available at our Courtyard Cafe. Visit the “What’s On” section for more details.
Easter is of course one of the most significant celebrations in the Christian calendar, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Over the centuries, various customs and traditions have become associated with Easter, with the egg being one of the most recognisable symbols. But how did eggs become linked to this sacred holiday, and what role do they play in the Easter story?
Ancient origins of the Easter egg
The tradition of using eggs in religious and cultural celebrations predates Christianity. Many ancient civilisations, including the Egyptians, Persians, and Romans, saw the egg as a symbol of life, fertility, and renewal. These early societies would exchange decorated eggs during Spring festivals to celebrate new life and the changing seasons.
When Christianity began to spread, many of these older traditions were adapted and incorporated into Christian celebrations. The egg, which had long been a representation of rebirth, became an apt symbol for Christ’s resurrection. Just as a chick hatch from an egg, emerging from its shell into new life, Jesus emerged from the tomb, symbolising the triumph over death.
The role of eggs in Christian tradition
In medieval Europe, eggs became more closely tied to Christian religious practices. During Lent, the 40-day period of fasting and penance leading up to Easter, the consumption of animal products, including eggs, was often prohibited. Since hens continued to lay eggs during this time, people would boil and preserve them, saving them for Easter Sunday when the fasting period ended. The giving and receiving of eggs on Easter became a way to celebrate the end of Lenten restrictions and the joy of Christ’s resurrection.
The practice of decorating eggs also has deep Christian roots. The tradition of painting eggs, red in particular, is said to symbolise the blood of Christ. This custom was especially popular in Eastern Orthodox Christianity, where red-dyed eggs were exchanged as a symbol of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection.
The evolution of the Easter egg tradition
Over time, the tradition of Easter eggs evolved beyond simple dyed eggs. By the 19th century, European chocolatiers began crafting eggs from chocolate, making them a beloved Easter treat. Today, chocolate eggs, as well as plastic eggs filled with candy or small toys, are widely used in Easter celebrations around the world.
Easter egg hunts and egg rolling are also popular customs. The Avenham Park Easter Egg Roll, held annually in Preston, Lancashire since 1867, is a famous example of this tradition. Some scholars believe that egg rolling represents the rolling away of the stone from Jesus’ tomb, reinforcing the connection between Easter eggs and the resurrection story.
The egg as a symbol of hope and renewal
Ultimately, the Easter egg remains a powerful symbol of renewal, hope, and faith. While its origins may be rooted in pre-Christian traditions, its meaning has been fully embraced by Christian teachings, serving as a joyful reminder of Christ’s victory over death. Whether through painting eggs, egg-shaped chocolate confectionary, or absorbing egg hunts, the egg continues to play a significant role in Easter celebrations worldwide.
The Easter Egg Hunt here at Holker Hall & Gardens is set to be the biggest in Cumbria this year, with over 100 eggs hidden for youngsters to discover. So, if you’re looking for things to do near Cartmel this Easter, why not pop along and join in the fun?